T cells and allergens relationships: are they that specific? Allergy and Clinical Immunology

摘要

Allergic diseases are T cell mediated conditions considered to be orchestrated by T-helper type 2 (Th2) cells, producing IL-4, IL-13 and IL-5. The two former cytokines are responsible for IgE synthesis while the latter attracts and activates eosinophils. This Th2 paradigm in allergy was imposed during the last 20 years, as a result of both experimental studies in animal models and human surveys examining allergic blood and tissues [l]. A primary Th2 deviation was described in atopic patients independently of any allergic disease, and demonstrated in allergic rhinitis, eczema and asthma. This predisposition was first attributed to an impaired capacity of T cells to develop a proper Thl activation able to counter Th2.